Railing system and tensioned posts used therein

ABSTRACT

One or more posts of a railing system are held securely in place by a hidden tensioning cable that extends through a cavity of the post along a longitudinal axis and is tensioned to securely fasten the post securely to a surface of a structure. Placement of the tensioning cable through the cavity allows cable receivers to be placed at desired spacing in one or more receiver channels of the post, the cable receivers operable to receive cable rails of the railing system. Base plates for the posts are mounted to the surface using securing elements. When the railing system is assembled, the tensioning cable and the securing elements are hidden from view.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/804,903 filed Mar. 14, 2013 which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/668,678 filed Jul. 6, 2012, both of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

In the railing industry, cable railing systems typically require the use of many components and are labor intensive, requiring a fabricator to install. They additionally are not always aesthetically pleasing as fittings and connections of the railing system, including connections of cable fittings to posts, are often in plain view. Moreover, multiple posts must be currently used at a location where the direction or orientation of the railing is to be changed. Thus, at a corner location on a deck, for example, a section of railing coming from one direction must terminate in a first post at the corner location and another section of railing leaving the corner in another direction must originate from a second post also in the corner location. This is commonly called the two-post corner system in the railing industry.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Example embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the included drawings such that like reference numerals refer to like elements and in which:

FIGS. 1A-1E is an illustration of an example railing system, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2 is another example of a railing system in which three types of posts are illustrated, consistent with certain implementations.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a base plate for use with a corner post of FIG. 2, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate a top plate for use with a corner post of FIG. 2, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a base plate for use with an intermediate post of FIG. 2, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate a top plate for use with an intermediate post of FIG. 2, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate a base plate for use with a combination post of FIG. 2, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 8A-8E illustrate a top plate for use with a combination post of FIG. 2, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example embedment of posts, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate an example embodiment, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 11A-11H illustrate exemplary extrusion profiles, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 12A-12F and 13A-13B illustrate hole pattern details of posts described herein.

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate rail standoffs, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIG. 15 illustrates a guardrail mounting on stair assembly, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 16A-16B and 17A-17B illustrate a railing system without a top rail, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate a side view of a corner post, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate an exploded view of a corner post assembly, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 20A-20D, 21A-21B-26 illustrate various exemplary configurations of a corner post, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 27A-27B illustrate an exploded view of an intermediate post assembly, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 28-29A-29B illustrate exploded views of exemplary combination post assemblies, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIG. 30 illustrates a combination post configuration, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 31A-31F, 32A-32D, 33, 34A-34D, and 35A-35D illustrate various mounting and hardware options for a railing system, in accordance with embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of the embodiments described herein. The embodiments may be practiced without these details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments described. The invention is not to be considered as limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein.

The terms “a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality”, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another”, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having”, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled”, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically.

Reference throughout this document to “one embodiment”, “certain embodiments”, “an embodiment”, “an example”, “an implementation”, “an example” or similar terms means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment, example or implementation is included in at least one embodiment, example or implementation of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, example or implementation. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, examples or implementations without limitation.

The term “or” as used herein is to be interpreted as an inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, “A, B or C” means “any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C”. An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.

One or more posts of a railing system are held securely in place by a hidden tensioning cable that extends through a cavity of the post along a longitudinal axis and is tensioned to securely fasten the post securely to a surface of a structure. Placement of the tensioning cable through the cavity allows cable receivers to be placed at desired spacing in one or more receiver channels of the post, the cable receivers operable to receive cable rails of the railing system. The receiver channels are oriented transverse the longitudinal axis of the post and are each configured to receive a receiver in to which a cable assembly may be placed. The cable assembly may be a cable, a cable rail, a swaged cable assembly, or a swageless cable assembly. The receiver is a tensioning receiver operable to receive, secure and tension a cable assembly placed into the receiver. The receiver channels may be recessed within the post.

One or more posts and an optional top bar of a railing system are held securely in place by a hidden tensioning cable that extends through a cavity along a longitudinal axis of the post and is tensioned to securely fasten the top bar and post securely to a surface of a structure, such as a deck or stairs. The tensioning cable is a cable hidden inside the post that may be a stainless steel cable, such as a threaded stud (such as a s6 stud) on a ready pre-made cable, or a separate all-thread rod. Thus, the term tensioning cable, cable assembly, cable or the like also refers to embodiments that use all-thread rather than a cable. Placement of the tensioning cable through the cavity allows cable receivers to be placed at desired spacing in one or more receiver channels of the post, the cable receivers operable to receive a number of cable rails of the railing system. The receiver channels are oriented transverse the longitudinal axis of the post and are each configured to receive a receiver in to which a cable assembly may be placed. Further, placement of the tensioning cable through the center of the post in the cavity allows for receiver channels to be placed in the body of the post at different orientations perpendicular to one another, as will be shown. This allows a single corner post to support railing oriented in two or more directions with respect to the post, and in any number of desired planes as well. Thus, a corner post as described here allows for two separate runs of railing cable on the same plane in two different directions, all with only one post.

In this manner, the post design shows no exterior screws, bolts, or other fasteners or securing elements, with everything needed to fasten the rail assembly to a structure hidden inside the post. The tensioning cable holds the entire assembly together with threaded fittings, and the tensioning hardware is hidden inside the post(s), which may be a corner post, intermediate post or a combination post. The post can be surface or side mounted to a deck, flooring, or other surface or stairs. The post can also be installed on wood and man-made material, such as deck material or core drilled into concrete. If core drilled into concrete, this may be accomplished with an embed extension as will be shown.

A wide variety of materials may be used for each of the various components, fixtures, and elements described herein, including aluminum, stainless steel, steel, wood, cast aluminum, brass, bronze, aluminum bronze, nickel aluminum bronze, nick bronze, carbon fiber, and plastic, as well as cast, extruded or extrusion parts.

It is known that for applications on or near the ocean, morning fog carries salty droplets of water called spindrift, which is known to rust even stainless steel over a few short months. Of course, parts of railing systems subjected to direct ocean spray or contact can rust even quicker. While there are cleaners and preserving creams/wax that may be applied to railing material to help combat rusting, this process can be time-consuming and ineffective.

When in contact with spindrift or direct salt water or spray, it is known that bare steel may only last days, painted or power coated steel a matter of months to a year, painted or powder coated aluminum about two to five years, bare aluminum will oxidize and disintegrate into a white powder, and stainless steel will last years but will have rust stains after a few months. Conversely, it is known that bronze, with its unique oxide patina, will hold up well even when in direct contact with salt water, with minimal pitting. Bronze away from spindrift will turn brown and stay that way indefinitely. Bronze subjected to spindrift from the ocean will form a green patina that stops the deterioration of the base metal and will stay green indefinitely.

Thus, while fittings, posts and the tensioning cable assembly may be steel, stainless steel, aluminum, painted or power coated steel, painted or powder coated aluminum in many environments, for salt water environments, these components are preferably made of bronze or some metal having bronze, such as aluminum bronze and nickel aluminum bronze.

Therefore, in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure there is provided a post assembly with a post having a cavity extending along a longitudinal axis of the post from the top of the post to the bottom of the post and configured to receive a tensioning cable therethrough; and receiver channels oriented transverse the longitudinal axis of the post along one or more sides of the post, each receiver channel configured to receive a receiver into which a cable assembly is placed.

In keeping with other embodiments presented herein, a post assembly has a post having a cavity extending along a longitudinal axis of the post from a top of the post to a bottom of the post and configured to receive a tensioning cable therethrough; receiver channels oriented transverse the longitudinal axis of the post along one or more sides of the post, each receiver channel configured to receive a receiver into which a cable assembly may be placed; a base plate coupled to the bottom of the post and the tensioning cable; a top plate coupled to the top of the post and the tensioning cable; and a tensioner element coupled to the top plate, wherein activation of the tensioner element engages the tensioning cable and tensions the top plate, post, and base plate to a surface to which the base plate is coupled, wherein the tensioning cable is coupled to the base plate and the top plate by a threaded fittings internal to the post and activation of the tensioner element activates the threaded fittings to tension the top plate, post and base plate to the surface to which the base plate is coupled.

In accordance with certain embodiments, a cable railing system for securing a cable railing flush to a surface of a structure: a first post having a cavity extending along a longitudinal axis extending the length of the first post from the top of the first post to the bottom of the first post and configured to receive a first tensioning cable therethrough and a first number receiver channels oriented transverse the longitudinal axis along one or more sides of the first post, each receiver channel of the first number of receiver channels configured to receive a receiver; a first base plate coupled to the bottom of the first post and the first tensioning cable; and a first top plate coupled to the top of the first post and the first tensioning cable; a first tensioner element coupled to the first top plate, wherein activation of the first tensioner element engages the first tensioning cable and tensions the first top plate, the first post, and the first base plate to a surface to which the first base plate is coupled; a second post having a cavity extending along a longitudinal axis extending the length of the second post from the top of the second post to the bottom of the second post and configured to receive a second tensioning cable therethrough and a second group of receiver channels oriented transverse the longitudinal axis along one or more sides of the second post, each receiver channel of the second group of receiver channels configured to receive a receiver; a second base plate coupled to the bottom of the second post and the second tensioning cable; and a second top plate coupled to the top of the second post and the second tensioning cable; a second tensioner element coupled to the second top plate, wherein activation of the second tensioner element engages the second tensioning cable and tensions the second top plate, the second post, and the second base plate to a surface to which the second base plate is coupled; and cable rails operable to be coupled to receivers received by the first group of receiver channels and to receivers received by the second group of receiver channels.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1E, an overview of various railing configurations that may use various embodiments described herein is shown. In FIG. 1A, a top view of the surface 16 of a deck 18 with stairs 22 in which railing is used is shown, with views A, B, C and D labeled. In can be seen that the railing is supported by and passes through a number of posts, sixteen in all. Posts 14 are referred to as end, secondary or combination posts, and may serve as a corner post, an intermediate post or as an end post for various hardware and fittings that do not have to be hidden inside the post. Additionally, as shown in the drawings, combination posts may serve as termination points of a particular run of railing. Corner posts 10, of which there are two and may be seen in views B, C and D, support separate runs of railing in different directions, in this example each corner post 10 supports two cable runs 90 degree apart. FIG. 1B, a side view A is shown, in which cable railing can be seen along an edge of the deck 18 and down the set of stairs 22 having a stair surface 20 to which the intermediate post 12 is affixed. In FIG. 1C, side view B of the other side of the stairs 22 is shown, in which end post 14 is affixed to the bottom surface, which may be ground or a patio, for example, an intermediate post 12 between posts 14 and 10 is affixed to a surface 20 of stairs 22, and the top post, a corner post 10, is affixed to the surface 16 of deck 18 as shown. In FIG. 1D, side view C of the railing along an edge of deck surface 16 of deck 18 is shown, with this run of railing between two corner posts 10 through intermediate posts 12. In FIG. 1E, view D illustrates a run of railing between corner post 10, through intermediate posts 12 and terminating at end post 14.

It can be seen from the example railing configurations shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, that the entire assembly is held in place with connection hardware being hidden from view. The post design shows no exterior screws, bolts, or other fasteners, with everything needed to fasten the rail assembly to a structure hidden inside the post. As will be described, a tensioning cable assembly holds the entire assembly together with threaded fittings, and the tensioning hardware is hidden inside the post(s).

FIG. 2 shows another more detailed example of a rail system with a run of cabling bounded by a combination or end post 14 and corner post 10, with an intermediate post 12, all of which support a number of evenly spaced cable rails 24. Though not shown in this side view, corner post 10 may support a number of other rails that extend in a different direction from that shown for rails 24, such as at right angle or approximately 90 degrees from the direction of run of rails 24. End post 14 is adjacent a structure, such as a house at an edge of deck 18. Each of the posts has an associated base plate and top plate. A standoff 38 on top of the top plates separates the top rail 40 from the posts and a tensioning receiver 42 is used to tension the tensioning cable 44, which may also be referred to herein as a tensioning cable assembly 44, that extends down through a cavity inside corner post 10. Tensioning the tensioning cable 44 with tensioning receiver 42 tensions the entire post assembly from the top rail to the base plate to the surface to which the railing is attached, in this example deck 18. It is noted that while tensioning cable is in most instances hidden inside corner post 10, it is shown here for purposes of illustration. Tensioning cable 44 may likewise be embedded within posts 12 and 14. Again, as noted above, the tensioning cable may alternately be an all-thread rod rather than a cable. If an all-thread rod is sued, it made of stainless steel or bronze, by way of example and not limitation. It is also noted that the terms top rail and top plate may be used interchangeably, with the term top rail generally denoting an expanse going from post to post, while the term top plate may more generally reference a plate located to a particular post.

Referring back to the base plate and top plate associated with each post, reference is now made to FIGS. 3-9. FIGS. 3A-3C show several views of an embodiment of a base plate 28. In this embodiment, the base plate 28 has a raised portion 130 sized and shaped to fit within the cavity of a corresponding corner post, such that the raised portion 130 inhibits lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate 28. The particular shape of raised portion 130 shown in the top view of FIG. 3A and the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3C and the corresponding corner post is one of many different shapes and configurations that may be employed, as will be seen. The base plate 28 may include a groove or slot 132 sized to receive the lower end of a corresponding corner post. It can be seen that base plate 28 may be attached to a surface using securing elements 136, such as fasteners, for example, that pass through holes 43. The surface may be core drilled and the securing elements 136 embedded into concrete as shown in this drawing, as well as in the exemplary concrete embedment of posts illustrated in FIG. 9. The bolt configuration is illustrated as reference number 49. Setting compound is illustrated as reference number 51 while reference number 53 refers to the post fastening configuration used in this example embodiment. Note that this method of attaching the base plate to a support structure may additionally be used in connection with base plate 32 and base plate 36 described below. Three through-holes 43 at the locations shown may be employed, as well as through-holes 45 at each of the five corners of the post as shown. FIG. 4A-4E show several views of a top plate 26. The top plate 26 includes a portion 140 that is sized to fit within the cavity of a corresponding corner post and inhibits lateral movement between the top plate and the corner port. FIG. 4A is a top view of top plate 26. The top plate 26 includes a cavity 142 for receiving a post tensioner and a threaded hole 144 for passing a tensioning cable. As indicated in the side view of FIG. 4B and the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 4D and 4E, top plate 26 may be angled or otherwise shaped as needed.

FIGS. 5A-5C show several views of a base plate 32 configured to mount an intermediate post. Also shown are four through-holes located at each corner of the post, in this configuration. Note that as an intermediate post (12 in FIG. 1) does not facilitate multiple runs of railing and simply provides structural support for railing running in one direction, its shape is quite different from that of corner post (10 in FIG. 1). In this embodiment, the base plate 32 has a raised portion 150 sized to fit within the cavity of a corresponding intermediate post (12 in FIG. 1), such that the raised portion 150 inhibits lateral motion of the intermediate post relative to the base plate 32. Groove or slot 152 is sized to receive the end of intermediate post and also inhibits lateral motion of the port. Thru-holes 154 in the base plate 32 are configured to receive one or more securing elements. The thru-holes 154 are located in a region of the base plate that is obscured from view when an intermediate post is attached. FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate top plate 30 for an intermediate post, with bottom, side and top views of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, respectively. As indicated, FIG. 6B and the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6D illustrate that top plate 30 may be angled or otherwise shaped as needed. The top plate 30 has a portion 160 sized to fit with the cavity of a corresponding intermediate post. The top plate also has a cavity 162 and a thru-hole 164 configured to receive a tensioning cable. Further, FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate an example embed for installing an intermediate post to a support surface in which a threaded insert 47 is used. In this example, the embed is aluminum but the embodiment is not restricted to an aluminum embed.

FIGS. 7A-7D show several views of a base plate 36 for securing a termination post (a combination or end post) to a surface. A top view is shown in FIG. 7B, side views are shown in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7D, and cross-sectional view is shown in FIG. 7C. The base plate 36 has a raised portion 170 sized to fit within the cavity of a corresponding termination post. The raised portion 170 inhibits lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate 36. The base plate 36 also has a groove or slot 172 sized to receive the end of a post. It can be seen that the base plate 36 reflects its function as a base for a terminating post. The base plate 36 has a threaded hole 47 to receive a tensioning cable. The base plate 36 also has four through-hole locations 43, including the through-holes at the corners 45, for added strength and stability for the railing system and threaded insert 47. As illustrated in the cross sectional view through section A, the base plate 36 has a groove or slot 172 configured to receive the bottom of a post to inhibit lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate. FIGS. 8A-8E show an embodiment of a top plate 34 of a termination post. FIG. 8A is a top view and FIG. 8C is a view from below. Side views FIGS. 8B, 8D and 8E are also shown. As indicated, top plate 34 may be angled or otherwise shaped as needed. In this embodiment, the top plate 34 has an extended portion 180 sized to fit within a corresponding cavity at the top of a corresponding post and inhibit lateral motion of the post relative to the top plate 34. Thru-hole 182 and cavity 184 are configured to receive a tensioning cable.

As indicated in the drawings, base plates 28, 32 and 36 and top plates 26, 30, and 34 may be casted and made by a casting process, but this is not required.

The rails, posts, standoffs that may be employed within the railing systems described may be of varying shapes. FIGS. 11A-11H, 12A-12F, 13A-13B, and 14A-14C illustrate various exemplary extrusion shapes and patterns, and are not meant to be limiting of the elements shown therein. In FIGS. 11A-11H, example shapes of standoffs are shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, embeds are shown in FIG. 11B, rails are shown in FIGS. 11C, 11D, and 11F, and intermediate and a secondary, combination or end posts are shown in FIGS. 11G and 11H, respectively. The shapes are extrusion profiles in this example. FIGS. 12A-12F and 13A-13B illustrate extrusion hole pattern details for exemplary corner post in FIGS. 12A-B, intermediate post in FIGS. 12C-12D, and combination or end or secondary post in FIGS. 12E-F, and bar holes in FIGS. 13A-13B. The bar hole pattern detail of FIGS. 13A-13B may be used by the flat mounting bar 88 of FIG. 29, for example.

The spacing is similar for all posts, and may be adjusted or change as desired. While a scale of 3 inches=1 foot, 0 inches is shown, such is meant for illustration purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate an example rail standoff with threads shown. As indicated in the system drawing, the rail standoff in is communication with tensioning receiver 42 in order that the tensioning cable can be activated to tighten the entire post assembly to the surface. As will be illustrated later, the standoff for a stair may be a little longer, such as ¼ inch longer or as needed, to allow for steep, angled stairs. When standoffs are being used on a stair, the tensioning receiver still needs to stay in the vertical position. So, a beveled washer may be used to keep the receiver at the correct position and such washers can be used throughout the railing system to keep things symmetrical, or a hole, such as ¾ inch hole, may be drilled into the top of the top bar to allow an angled insert to be used. The use of a beveled washer or grommet 54 in a railing for a stair assembly is illustrated in the exploded view of a guardrail mounting of FIG. 15. The angle of railing 56, including cable railing associated with stairs, will vary as needed. The angle cut of the post stair tensioner 58 may be marked after tensioning to match the angle of the stair railing 56.

Referring now to FIGS. 16A-16B and 17A-17B, an embodiment in which a top rail 40 is not used is illustrated. In this example railing system, rails 24 are supported by two corner posts 10 between which are fashioned three intermediate posts 12. Also, a support rail, such as a reinforced cable railing 25, may be used to provide structural support, particularly useful when no top bar is sued, only top caps 52 at the top of each post, as shown. In the exemplary drawing, the support rail is attached between the corner post and an adjacent intermediate post, towards the top of the corner post and towards the bottom of the intermediate post, though the places of attachment and diagonal angle employed may be varied, as may the placement of support rail 25 to extend across multiple sections of railing if more support is desired or to achieve a desired aesthetic. Such an arrangement without the top bar permits a cleaner, unhindered view and may be more aesthetically pleasing in certain settings. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 17A, a structurally reinforced rail 24′ may be optionally used to provide further rigidity and support. In a specific example, not meant to be limiting, the railing may be reinforced with a tube over a cable, such as ½ inch×1 inch by 093 aluminum tubing over the cable. FIG. 7B shows intermediate post 12.

As previously described, the use of a corner post with receiver channels that are oriented transverse the longitudinal axis of a cavity that extends inside the corner post and is adapted to receive a tensioning cable therethrough permits the corner post to support two or more runs of cable railing in two or more directions with respect to the corner post. Reference is now made to FIGS. 18A-18B in which a side view of a corner post, such as that also shown in FIG. 2, is shown. In the enlarged view on the left, it can be seen that receivers 55 connected to cable rails 24 are accommodated in receiver channels embedded inside the corner post 10 as illustrated.

FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate an exemplary corner post assembly 190, exploded view. In exploded view FIG. 19A, it can be seen that corner post 10 has a cavity 50 that accommodates the tensioning cable assembly 44, which is hidden by virtue of being in the cavity that runs along a longitudinal axis through the post. The tensioning receiver 42 is accomplished for a receiver 60 in communication with a post tensioner 62 as shown. Receiver studs 64 connect the cable assembly to the post tensioner 62, top plate 26, and base plate 28 as shown. In certain embodiments, a thin metal tube may be placed over the section of tensioning cable 44 between receiver studs 64 in order to combine the strength of the studs 64. The receiver 55 is received by a receiver channel of the corner post and is configured to mate with a swaged stud 66, for example. Base plate 28 is threaded to connect with the embedment as shown. Base plate 28 has a raised portion 130 sized to fit within the cavity 50 of the extruded corner post 10, such that the raised portion 130 inhibits lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate 28. Thru-holes in the base plate 28 are configured to receive one or more securing elements 192, such as lag bolts, for example. FIG. 19B shows a top view of an exemplary corner post 65.

To assemble the corner post assembly shown, the base plate 28 is fastened or embedded into an embedment (embed), such as concrete. As indicated by reference number 69, a lag bolt (such as a 5/16 inch lag bolt) or equivalent for wood or simulated material decks can be used, or a screw as shown or a rod 194 for embed 192. The tensioning cable assembly 44 is threaded into the base plate. The post is installed into the groove 68 in the base plate on which the post rests or shim is placed. The top cap/plate 26 is placed on the assembly. The post tensioner 62 is threaded onto the cable assembly and the post is tightened. The top bar is placed onto the top cap/plate 26 and the outside edges of the tensioner can be marked on the bottom of the top bar 40. A hole can be drilled in the bottom of the top bar 40 and a corresponding smaller hole is drilled into the top of the top bar 40. The standoff 38 is placed over the tensioner 62. The top bar is tightened over the cable using receiver 60, such as by using a hex wrench. The cable is tensioned to the tension needed to provide required stability and strength of the railing. For example, the cable may be tensioned to 400 ft. pounds.

A corner post may have a finished height of 36 inches for residential application or 42 inches for commercial application.

It can be seen from the exploded corner post of FIG. 19B that the entire corner post assembly is held in place with connection hardware that is hidden from view. The post configuration shows no exterior screws, bolts, or other fasteners or securing elements, with everything needed to fasten the rail assembly to a structure hidden inside the post. The tensioning cable assembly holds the entire corner post assembly together with threaded fittings, and the tensioning hardware is hidden inside the post(s).

Post assembly 190 is configured to enable a post 10 to be secured to a surface. The post assembly 190 includes post 10 having a cavity 50 extending along a longitudinal axis of the post from the top of the post to the bottom of the post, top plate 26 configured to contact the top of the post 10, base plate 28 configured to contact the bottom of the post 10, and tensioning cable 44 that passes through cavity 50 in post 10 and applies tension between top plate 26 and bottom plate 28, such that the post 10 is held against the base plate and a region of the base plate is hidden from view by the bottom of the post when the tensioning cabling is tensioned. A securing element, such as a lag bolt 69 or embedded stud 194, secures the base plate to the surface. The securing element may be located in the region of the base plate that is hidden from view by the bottom of the post and the tensioning cable 44 is hidden from view within the cavity 50 when the assembly 190 is assembled.

The corner post 10 may be of different shapes, and as indicated in reference number 65, and further illustrated in the top view of corner post 10 of FIGS. 20A-20D, may be configured to have receiver channels 56 at a first orientation and at a second orientation perpendicular to the first orientation, such that a 90 degree or other offset of one receiver channel from the other receiver channel in the same plane is achieved. First and second receiver channels thus oriented may reside in the same horizontal plane, i.e. be co-planar, and thus are configured to receive receivers coupled to railing cables in substantially the same plane, i.e. the same horizontal plane. Thus, a first section of railing along one edge of a deck, for example, may enter the corner post in a first receiver channel having a first orientation at a certain height above the surface of a structure, and a second section of railing along another edge of the deck may exit a second receiver channel of the same corner post at a second orientation at the same height. The orientations of the receiver channels may be perpendicular to one another, such that the first and second sections of railing would also be perpendicular with respect to one another, i.e. 90 degrees. While the receiver channels may be substantially perpendicular, other angled arrangements may be employed. It can be seen that such a receiver channel arrangement of the corner post as shown in FIGS. 20A-20D permits this to occur. And, receipt of a receiver by a receiver channel occurs inside the corner post and thus presents a clean, hidden way of coupling cable railing to the post. It can be seen that the cavity 50 without the corner post 10 may be oriented as desired to present a corner post without corner extension 65, as in FIGS. 20A and 20B or a corner post with corner extension 65′, shown in FIGS. 20C and 20D. It can be seen in the top view of the corner post without corner extension of FIGS. 21A-21B that adjustment of the receiver channel 56′ permits the use of swageless fittings on the corner post if so desired.

Reference to FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate alternate embodiments of a corner post. In the top views of both drawings, receiver channels 72 are recessed within the post as shown. In FIG. 22 two receiver channels of different orientations, in this case perpendicular orientations are shown, and permit railing (cable assembly 24) to be coupled to the corner post 70 at the same height on the corner post but at different orientations. FIG. 23 illustrates corner post 75, also with recessed receiver channels 72. There are four receiver channels shown, though three could also be used if desired. Not all receiver channels may reside in the same plane above the surface to which the corner post is attached, as the cable rails would interfere in the same plane. However, a pair of receiver channels, such as A and B or C and D, being perpendicular to one another, may co-exist in the same horizontal plane and the pairs themselves could be offset in the horizontal plane (i.e. height on the corner post) and even achieve a spiral effect of the railing on the corner post. Consider the following illustrious example. The receiver channels A and B of the first pair could be at a first height on the corner post, while receiver channels C and D of the second pair could be at a second height on the corner post that is different from the first height.

The corner post, or other types of posts, including intermediate and end or combination posts, for that matter, may be constructed of one piece of material, such as a single extruded piece, or they may be formed of multiple parts that are fastened together by pins, screws or the like, without departing from the spirit and scope of the various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 24, corner post 80 is formed of first and second parts 82 and 84, fastened together by a pin at one corner and having a friction fitting 86 at an opposite corner. The shape of corner post 80 approximates that of corner post 65′ of FIG. 20C, formed of one piece, and also has a corner extension. It is noted that corner post 65, also of FIG. 20A, could likewise be formed of two or more pieces. In FIG. 25, corner post 80′ has recessed portions 88 of first and second parts 82′ and 84′ to accommodate the receivers received by the receiver channels of the corner post. In FIG. 26, corner post 80″ is formed of two pieces 82″ and 84″ with a differently configured friction fitting 89 as shown.

Extrusion of the corner post in two or more pieces that are then fastened together may be particularly advantageous when the corner post is formed of certain materials, such as bronze. Further, forming the corner post of two or more pieces in any material may greatly reduce the cost of manufacture.

In addition to the corner posts previously discussed, FIG. 27A illustrates an intermediate post assembly 12, exploded view, while FIG. 27B shows a cable loading detail, vertical along post 12. Intermediate post 12 has the receiver and post tensioner, illustrated as tensioning receiver 42 of FIG. 2, that allow the cable assembly and intermediate post to be tensioned to the supporting structure, whether it be a deck, flooring, etc. As indicated by reference number 69, a lag or equivalent for wood or simulated material decks can be used, or a screw as shown or a rod for embed. Bottom cap (base plate) 28, 32, 36 may be cast.

The intermediate post may be used to support cable railing every 42 inches or less to maintain cable spacing and to meet certain construction industry standards, such as IRC Code Standard 1×3×⅛ inch architectural aluminum. The intermediate post can be installed on wood, man-made deck materials or core drilled into concrete. An example aluminum embedment is illustrated in FIGS. 3B and 10B. Example dimensions of an intermediate post are 1×3×⅛ inch. An intermediate post may have a finished height of 36 inches for residential application or 42 inches for commercial application.

As may be understood by reference to the exploded view of FIG. 27A, a process of assembling the intermediate post would include the following: mount base plate 32; thread the cable assembly 44 onto the base plate; place the intermediate post 12 into a groove of the base plate; put the top cap, which may be cast aluminum, in place; thread the post tensioner onto the cable assembly and tighten post into place. Place the rail or top bar 40, which may have dimensions of 1×3 inches, for example onto the top cap and make the outside edges of tensioner on the bottom or top bar, drill hole in the bottom of the top bar and slightly smaller hole on the top of the top bar; place standoff 38 over the post tensioner (again, the standoff may be a 90 degree cut in the case of a placement of the railing on a horizontal surface or it may be angled 45 degrees to accommodate placement of the railing on stairs); and start receiver 42 on the cable and fasten top bar to the assembly. The receiver 42 may be tightened with a wrench, such as a 3/16 inch hex wrench. The cable is tensioned to the tension needed to provide required stability and strength of the railing. For example, the cable may be tensioned to 400 ft. pounds.

It can be seen from the exploded view of the intermediate post of FIG. 27A that the entire intermediate post assembly is held in place with connection hardware that is hidden from view. The post configuration shows no exterior screws, bolts, or other fasteners, with everything needed to fasten the rail assembly to a structure hidden inside the post. The tensioning cable assembly holds the entire intermediate post assembly together with threaded fittings, and the tensioning hardware is hidden inside the post(s).

Reference is now made to FIGS. 28, 29A-29B, and 30, in which illustration of the combination post 14 is provided. In FIG. 28, an exploded view of a combination post assembly is illustrated. When used as an intermediate post 14, a through cable 24 along the post is shown. Receiver 55 along the post and a swaged stud 66 is used when the post is an end post. A combination post may be used to offer structural support for railing every 7 feet or less, whereas an intermediate post may be used to provide support of the cable railings every 42 inches or less to maintain cable spacing and to meet code requirements. A combination post may have a finished height of 36 inches for residential application or 42 inches for commercial application. As indicated by reference number 69, a lag or equivalent for wood or simulated material decks can be used, or a screw as shown or a rod for embed. FIG. 29A is an exploded view of an exemplary post assembly. A combination post 14 provides mounting options using threaded fittings for when the post is used as a corner post, intermediate post, or a “tee” post, as illustrated in the various configurations of the mounting bar shown in FIG. 29B. This embodiment illustrates use of a flat mounting bar 88. A combination post may come pre-drilled with 3 1/16 inch hole spacing and may utilize a pre-drilled and tapped flat mounting bar 88, (such as ¼ inch×1 inch) into which various hardware would screw; the holes may have 5/16×24 inch threads, for example. Flat bar 88 may be held in notches on the top plate 34 and base plate 36, as shown, along an inside edge of combination post 14, which allows the force of the fittings and the cable assembly 44 to pull against flat bar 88 instead of the wall of the post 14. Alternately, a friction drill bit could be used and permits a thinner wall post (such as ⅛ inch as opposed to ¼ inch, for example) to be used, thereby eliminating the need for the flat bar 88. Such a configuration would still have ¼ inch of usable threads, thereby eliminating the need for a more expensive material and component. This arrangement allows external hardware to be fastened to the combination post 14 or to be used when the post is up against a wall. As indicated by reference number 69, a lag (such as a 5/16 inch) or equivalent for wood or simulated material decks can be used, or a screw as shown or a rod for embed. Bottom cap (base plate) 28, 32, 36 may be cast. FIG. 30 illustrates an example configuration of a combination post. The cable assembly is tensioned to the tension needed to provide required stability and strength of the railing. For example, the cable may be tensioned to 400 ft. pounds.

Referring to FIG. 30, post assembly 300 is configured to enable a post 10 to be secured to a surface. The post assembly 300 includes post 10 having a cavity 50 extending along a longitudinal axis of the post from the top of the post to the bottom of the post, top plate 34 configured to contact the top of the post 10, base plate 36 configured to contact the bottom of the post 10, and tensioning cable 44 that passes through cavity 50 in post 10 and applies tension between top plate 34 and bottom plate 36, such that the post 10 is held against the base plate and a region 302 of the base plate is hidden from view by the bottom of the post when the tensioning cabling is tensioned. A securing element that secures the base plate to the surface may located in the region 302 of the base plate that is hidden from view by the bottom of the post (as shown in FIG. 19A, for example) and the tensioning cable 44 is hidden from view within the cavity 50 when the assembly 300 is assembled. Raised portion 170 and groove 172 of the base plate inhibit lateral motion of the post 10.

It can be seen from the exploded view of the combination post of FIG. 28 that the combination post assembly is held in place with connection hardware that is hidden from view. The post configuration shows no exterior screws, bolts, or other fasteners, with everything needed to fasten the rail assembly to a structure hidden inside the post. The tensioning cable assembly holds the combination post assembly together with threaded fittings, and the tensioning hardware is hidden inside the post(s).

FIGS. 31A-31F illustrate a rail bracket 85 that may be used in the railing system described herein, with assorted mountings that may be employed. Included are wood posts in FIG. 31A, metal posts in FIG. 31B, masonry mount in FIG. 31C, wood handrail as in FIG. 31E, and an exploded view post mount in FIG. 31F. A front view of bracket 85 is illustrated in FIG. 31D. In the exploded view post mount of FIG. 31F, it can be seen that bracket 85 in this embodiment is comprised of a bracket arm 86, a bracket stem 87 useful for an aluminum post, a saddle 88 comprised of a plug welded to a swivel as shown, and a button head screw 89. In the wood post of FIG. 31A a hanger bolt 71 may be used as shown. In the masonry mount example of FIG. 31C, an epoxy embedment 73 may be used as shown.

Further with regard to a wood railing or wood top configuration, FIGS. 32A-32D demonstrate various handrail mounting options that may be employed, as does the wood handrail corner post assembly illustrated in FIG. 33. As illustrated in FIG. 32A, there is an option for a channel, such as a 1×½×⅛ inch, a 1½×½×⅛ inch, or a 1¼×½×⅛ inch aluminum, stainless, brass, bronze, or wood channel, that connects to the top of the standoff, thereby allowing a contractor to install wood or fasten their own wood to the top of the railing system. The channel, for example, may have 3/18 inch holes 12 inch on center. A strap hinge 92 and one or more fasteners 94 may be used to attach the channel to the handrail 40 as shown. One or more splice plates 96 may be used as illustrated in FIGS. 32B and 32C for the channel when mounting on wood. As shown in FIG. 32D, a 90 degree splice plate can be used in connection with two channels 90 as shown. The contractor could additional fashion the wood top as desired so that the metal strip of the channel is not seen. Further, in FIG. 33, a swivel assembly 83 may be fastened to the channel 90 and handrail 91 as shown. Also, a hidden 90 degree splice plate and channel combination 96/90 may be used, as well as a hidden turndown hardware as indicated by reference number 98. At the bottom of the drawing, a handrail bracket 85 may be used on the stair post and is held by cable.

Referring now to FIGS. 34A-34D and 35A-35D, hinges are used to attach the hand rail or top rail 40 in the railing system. In FIGS. 34A-34D, a vertical hinge 100 attaches each piece of handrail in the “Z” axis and is able to accommodate any pitch range of either existing or new construction stairways or ramps. This hinge will also connect sections of the top bar whenever the angle of the top bar changes. Accordingly, the vertical hinge may be inserted into the top bar on each side of the miter joint with a couple of stainless self-tapping screws, for example, which will screw up into a hollow chamber into the vertical hinge. The vertical hinge can be used to hold the handrail in place at any angle or on any length top bar that needs to be extended.

The horizontal hinged connector 110 of FIGS. 35A-35D attaches each piece or section of handrail in the “X” axis regardless of its angle. The horizontal hinge may be inserted into the top bar on each side of the miter joint with a couple of stainless self-tapping screws, for example, which will screw up into a hollow chamber into the horizontal hinge. The horizontal hinge 110 may be countersunk for a screw(s) at 112. The horizontal hinge can be used to hold the handrail in place at any angle or on any length top bar that needs to be extended. Further, the horizontal hinge has a hole, such as a 1 inch cavity, in the center of both pieces to allow it to fit over the tensioner 42 on the inside of the top bar.

The implementations of the present disclosure described above are intended to be examples only. Those of skill in the art can effect alterations, modifications and variations to the particular example embodiments herein without departing from the intended scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, selected features from one or more of the above-described example embodiments can be combined to create alternative example embodiments not explicitly described herein.

The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the disclosure is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A post assembly configured to enable a post to be secured to a surface, the post assembly comprising: a post having a cavity extending along a longitudinal axis of the post from the top of the post to the bottom of the post; a top plate configured to contact the top of the post; a base plate configured to contact the bottom of the post; a tensioning cable that passes through the cavity in the post and applies tension between the top plate and the bottom plate, such that the post is held against the base plate and a region of the base plate is hidden from view by the bottom of the post when the tensioning cabling is tensioned; and a securing element that secures the base plate to the surface, wherein the securing element is located in the region of the base plate that is hidden from view by the bottom of the post and the tensioning cable is hidden from view within the cavity when the assembly is assembled.
 2. The post assembly of claim 1, where the base plate comprises a raised portion sized to fit within the cavity of the post, such that the raised portion inhibits lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate.
 3. The post assembly of claim 2, where the base plate comprises a raised portion shaped to match a cross-sectional shape of the cavity of the post, such that the raised portion inhibits lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate.
 4. The post assembly of claim 1, where the securing element comprises one or more through-holes in the base plate, located within the region of the base plate that is hidden from view by the bottom of the post.
 5. The post assembly of claim 4, where the one or more through-holes in the base plate comprises a plurality of holes configured to receive one or more fastening elements.
 6. The post assembly of claim 1, where the securing element comprises a threaded through-hole in the base plate, the threaded through-hole located within the region of the base plate that is hidden from view by the bottom of the post.
 7. The post assembly of claim 6, where the threaded through-hole in the base plate is configured to receive a threaded stud embedded in the surface and further configured to receive an end of the tensioning cable.
 8. The post assembly of claim 1, where the tensioning cable comprises a rod.
 9. The post assembly of claim 1, where the base plate has a groove configured to receive the bottom of the post to inhibit lateral motion of the post relative to the base plate.
 10. The post assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of receiver channels oriented transverse the longitudinal axis of the post along one or more sides of the post, each receiver channel configured to receive a receiver into which a cable rail assembly is placed.
 11. A method for securing a post to a surface without visible fasteners, the method comprising: providing a post having a cavity extending along a longitudinal axis of the post from the top of the post to the bottom of the post; securing a base plate to the surface using one or more fasteners; locating the bottom of the post on the base plate, such that the one or more fasteners are hidden from view by the post; and tensioning a cable between a top plate that contacts the top of post and the base plate such that the bottom of the post is held against the base plate and the tensioning cable is hidden from view.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein securing the base plate to the surface using one or more fasteners comprises passing one or more fastening elements, through holes in the base plate located in a region of the base plate concealed by the post.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein securing the base plate to the surface using the one or more fasteners comprises: embedding a stud in the surface; and attaching the base plate to the stud via a threaded hole in the base plate, wherein the threaded hole is located in a region of the base plate concealed by the post.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein tensioning the cable between the top plate that contacts the top of post and the base plate further comprises: attaching the cable to a threaded hole in the base plate, wherein the threaded hole is located in a region of the base plate concealed by the post.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein locating the bottom of the post on the base plate, such that the one or more fasteners are hidden from view by the post comprising installing the post in a groove in the base plate.
 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising coupling a top rail to the top of the post with the cable.
 17. A base plate for attaching a post of a railing assembly to a mounting surface, the base plate comprising: a lower plate have a lower surface for contacting the mounting surface and an upper surface for contacting a bottom end of the post and inhibiting lateral motion of the hollow post relative to the upper surface, wherein a region of the upper surface is hidden from view by the post; and wherein the region of the upper surface that is hidden from view by the post contains one or more through holes that enable the base plate to be fastened to the mounting surface using fasteners that are hidden from view by the post.
 18. The base plate of claim 17, wherein the base plate contains a threaded receiver located in the region of the upper surface that is hidden from view, the threaded receiver configured to receive a tensioning cable that enables the post to be coupled to the base plate.
 19. The base plate of claim 17, wherein the upper surface of the lower plate has a raised portion sized to fit within the post.
 20. The base plate of claim 17, wherein the upper surface of the lower plate has a groove configured to receive the post. 